Ideally, I would complete the copy-editing before doing any proofreading. This means that after doing the copy-editing, I would send the file back to the client. They would then make whatever changes they wanted. The client would send the file back to me and I’d do the proofreading.
So what is included in copy-editing?
There is a bit of an overlap with proofreading, so I check spelling, syntax, grammar and punctuation. But the following are also included in my copy-editing service:
- improving the readability, clarity and fluency of the text
- removing monotonous repetition of words and phrases
- checking for ambiguity and suggesting solutions
- checking that tenses are used consistently and noting where there is a problem with inconsistency
- checking that any style guide has been complied with and correcting the text where necessary (excluding formatting/layout)
- checking that the chapter headings and subheadings in any Table of Contents match those in the text
- checking that abbreviations are noted when a term is first mentioned and noting where they are not
- checking that the treatment of quotations that are embedded in the text and those that are displayed is consistent. For example, that quotations of up to a certain number of words/lines are embedded and that the layout for displayed quotations is consistent. I note where this is not the case
- checking that the headings/captions relating to tables, figures and illustrations are consistent in terms of font size and type and capitalisation. I note where this is not the case
- checking any numbered sequences and making a note if any sequence is incorrect
- checking the layout of lists and advising whether the style is consistent across the text or within each list and noting inconsistencies
- identifying any overuse of things such as italic, bold and capitals
- being alert to factual errors such as misspelled names of people, documents or buildings and misquoted material. I will highlight these for you. Checking that all facts are correct is not part of the usual copy-editing service, though.
If you’d like to find out more about my copy-editing services, please get in touch using the Superscript contact page
Proof-editing
Proof-editing is a fairly new term. It is a combination of copy-editing and proofreading that is done at the same time. Many of my clients are very happy with this one-step service, and it fits with their budget. Lots of clients don’t have funds to have copy-editing done in one pass and then proofreading done separately later.
Many of my (non-publisher) clients say that they want their text proofreading, but when I look at the file it’s clear that it needs more than this, and ideally should be copy-edited. If the client doesn’t have the time or the budget to ask me to copy-edit their text first and then proofread it at a later date once they’ve made the relevant changes, I can proof-edit it in one pass.
If you’re not sure which service you need, you can just send me your text and I’ll advise you.
You can see a summary of my portfolio and some testimonials here: https://www.ciep.uk/directory/beverley-bev-sykes-academic-copy-editor-and-proofreader/